Poplar Grove Plantation

Conservation, Education & Preservation

Historic Poplar Grove Plantation is a museum complex with tours of the 1850 Manor House, live informative demonstrations by the blacksmith, basket maker or weaver. This southern plantation was known for being one of the oldest and largest peanut plantations in the south, formerly consisting of over 600 acres, now situated just north of downtown Wilmington. Poplar Grove Plantation has been featured in a number of films about the civil war era.

The history of Poplar Grove Plantation and the Foy family date back to the late 1700's. You'll learn about farm life, farm animals, crops, slavery, the civil war and much more. The picnic and playground area, agricultural and historic artifact exhibits, gardens and gazebo add to this great place for group or individual tours. School programs are tailored to grade level and may include a hayride through the 16 acre plantation (by advance reservation.) Children love to visit the barnyard (closed toe shoes required!)where they can get up close with the horses, goats, sheep, pigs, geese and more.

The Cultural Arts Center is used for classes offered by both local and regional experts in their field of basket making, pine needle weaving, art and other media. The center, as well as the plantation grounds, is also available for weddings, receptions, parties and meetings and will hold up to 175 guests. The manor house may be rented for small wedding ceremonies after 5PM.

Poplar Grove's General Store carries locally made pottery, baskets, stationery, jewelry and other wonderful gifts. The shop also carries a nice assortment of history books, cookbooks, coloring books, toys, jams, candies and mementos of your visit to the plantation.

From South, take Route 17 north just past Porters Neck. Poplar Grove is on the Right. From North, take Route 17 south past Hampstead. Poplar Grove is on the left opposite Sidbury Road.

The Farmers' Market at Poplar Grove is open each Wednesday, 8AM - 1PM, April - November. An open-air market on the grounds of the manor house featuring all local produce, baked goods, plants, artisan crafts and more.